"Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and 4-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.
Our Best Buy is Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks include BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz CLK."

Acceleration
"Impressive takeoff thrust supports Cadillac's 0-60 mph claims of 5.9 sec for base model, just 4.6 sec for XLR-V. Transmissions furnish crisp, almost seamless shifts to enhance muscular merging and passing power."

Value
"Priced between the less-expensive Lexus SC430 and costlier Mercedes-Benz SL rivals, XLR need make no apology for features and performance. The XLR-V is a genuine high-performance machine, even if it doesn't quite feel like a $100,000 car. Cadillac's challenge is to convince well-heeled shoppers that any XLR is in the same league as its prestigious competition."

Ride
"Refined and stable, even with XLR-V's firmer suspension and 19-inch tires. Tar strips, surface blemishes noticed, but generally aren't jarring. Magnetic Ride Control helps provide reassuring high-speed discipline. Impressive structural rigidity, even top down, though one test car suffered a creaking cowl over bumps."

Economy
Test base models averaged 15.9-18.4 mpg. No opportunity yet to measure with XLR-V. Both require premium-grade fuel.

Noise
"Tightly sealed hardtop, plenty of insulation keep wind, tire noise well within reason. Normal conversation possible with top down, even at highway speeds. Rapid acceleration brings spirited V8 growl that's slightly more noticed in XLR-V."

Comfort - Front
"Not expansive, but as roomy as any rival. Comfortable, supportive seats set low, so entry/exit requires minor effort and visibility slightly compromised, especially with top up."

Comfort - Rear
(No rear seating.)

Controls
"Clear array of analog gauges supplemented by head-up windshield display. Switches logically placed, numerous enough to control myriad functions, but not cluttered, though navigation screen required for some audio functions. Ignition is dashboard ""start"" button rather than key. Old-fashioned pedal parking brake clutters driver footwell. Mix of top-quality leather, wood, aluminum gives cabin fresh, upscale ambience."

Cargo Room
"Power-operated trunklid opens to 11.6-cu-ft cargo hold, enough for two golf bags. Roof and rear glass lower into trunk, shrinking volume to 4.4 cu ft. Interior storage tight. Difficult for occupants to access small bins behind console while seated."